Which class of antidepressants is associated with prolonged QT intervals in overdose cases?

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are known to cause prolonged QT intervals, particularly in cases of overdose. This occurs due to their sodium channel blockade, which affects cardiac conduction. The risk of QT prolongation is significant in overdose situations, leading to serious arrhythmias and potentially life-threatening complications.

In contrast, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) generally do not have the same level of risk associated with prolonged QT intervals. While some of these medications may have other side effects or interactions that could indirectly affect cardiac health, TCAs specifically are particularly notorious for their cardiac toxicity in overdose situations, making them a focal point for monitoring in clinical scenarios involving potential overdose.